“Perseverance…keeps honor bright: to have done, is to hang quite out of fashion, like a rusty nail in monumental mockery. -William Shakespeare

“…if you keep going when everyone tells you to quit; if you press on even when have been told it’s all over; if you ignore the singing of the fat lady and the falling of the curtain; if you drive on, even when it’s dark and even in the rain, then you win. That was the promise of America when I was a kid, and it’s still the promise today, but only you believe in it and only if you keep trying.” -Jerry Weintraub

You may feel asking for help makes you look weak. However, it’s human nature to offer help when you see someone in need of help. 2. Be specific.

The key is to be specific. The more information you provide, the easier it is for others to help you. For example, include the names of actual companies you may want to work for and the corresponding job functions or job titles.

3. Follow up.

Check in with your contacts every week or two. People are busy. It’s a good practice to touch base with your contacts regularly so they will remember you.

4. Be thankful.

Always be grateful with your contacts spending time to help you out with your job search. Send a thank you e-mail, a thank you card, or take them to lunch as a gesture of gratitude.

5. Give back.

Help someone else out. If you receive a job requirement from a recruiter and you won’t be pursuing it yourself, pass it on to your network. You may just brighten someone else’s day with this act of kindness.